Posen, DVF, and Minkoff NYFW Spring 2012

One of the wonderful things about fashion is that it allows people to express their individuality. Some may like leopard print, others dramatic ball gowns, others a tailored suit and yet others acid-wash jeans—there is no right or wrong, only personal style. And though designers are known for a certain “feel” or “look” it is amazing to see just how different those pieces look on different people. New York Fashion Week is a testament to this facet of the industry, with editors, buyers, designers, models, and fashion savvy on-lookers roaming Lincoln Center in their most stylish garb.

With that said here are a few of my favorite collections…although nothing alike.

Zac Posen not only made me forget that he had been missing for awhile, showing his first collection at New York Fashion Week since his short stint in Paris, I also forgot about all the holiday parties that go hand-in-hand with this time of year—somehow convinced by the full skirted party dresses that spring is going to be the new “party season.” Cut and fit were the obvious monikers of this collection and done so with near perfection. We are sure to see A-List Hollywood actresses in his extreme-flair mermaid gowns come red carpet season and I am more than curious to see which lucky starlet will be wearing that magnificent emerald gown to the Oscars next year.

We can always count on Dian Von Furstenberg to keep prints alive. Though the show started with monochromatic white looks it quickly eased its way into color-blocked “happy” shades of mint-green, taupe, and chocolate brown, and finally into a variety of floral prints. The green, orange and purple prints decorated kimono inspired dresses and separates cinched with belts. The mixing and matching of the smaller buds with large full bloom prints were fun and cleverly juxtaposed, but at times a bit overwhelming. One of my favorite looks was a mint green floral jumpsuit… there truly is something for everyone in this collection.

The cool styling and colors at Rebecca Minkoff had a markedly Left Coast appeal. The opening look was a sherbet-orange, one-button jacket paired with a white and grey graphic print short. The white shades, neon clutch, and gladiator sandal completed this to-cool-for-school look. The west coast vibe continued with a sheer striped neon tank and hot pink, high-waisted short-shorts with more of a summer day at the beach feel than spring. A more season appropriate look was an easy to wear print dress with yellow ruffles just above the knee.